For the first time, the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) will expand its New Year’s Eve Fireworks display to five (5) parishes to uplift the spirits of Jamaicans in Western Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. 

In addition to the traditional shows in Downtown Kingston, Ocho Rios, and Harmony Beach Park in Montego Bay, the UDC will bring New Year’s fireworks to Black River, St. Elizabeth, and Long Bay Beach, Negril. The wider staging is intended to give more families access to a meaningful end-of-year experience as the country continues on its path toward recovery.  

For more than two decades, the UDC’s New Year’s fireworks have offered Jamaicans a simple but cherished moment of togetherness. This year, while the celebrations will take a more modest approach, the Corporation believes it remains important to create opportunities for joy, reflection, and community spirit as Jamaicans look toward 2026 with hope. 

The UDC says it felt strongly about giving Jamaicans a moment to reconnect with each other as the year ends noting that at this time, Jamaicans are looking for something to smile about following a challenging period for many households.  

The UDC remains committed to uplifting the spirit of our people and further strengthening Jamaica’s spirit of resilience.  

The UDC notes that extending the fireworks experience to more parishes was an essential part of the Corporation’s effort to support communities as they look ahead. 

Each location will offer free public viewing of the UDC midnight countdown to the fireworks, bringing communities together in a shared moment of anticipation and unity. 

Jamaicans are encouraged to stay tuned to the UDC’s official platforms in coming days for more information.